Summer steelhead action is surging across Southwest Washington. Columbia River banks are bustling, tributaries are offering early morning bites, and the ocean’s coho and Chinook fishery remains robust. Lake fishing continues to swing wildly, offering highs and lows depending on timing and technique. With warming temperatures and rising angler activity, adaptability remains key to success across the region.
Lewis River
Flows dropped again this week to 1,400 cfs as summer lows settle in. Anglers battled grass and drifting cotton, which fouled most gear before it could reach fish. One late-day keeper hints that steelhead are present but difficult to reach. Bobber dogging with coon shrimp in deep holes proved more effective than plugs or float rigs this week.
Kalama River
Reports were limited, but Sunday morning observations noted a quiet river and unresponsive fish. While fish likely remain scattered throughout the system, the bite has been elusive. Early appearances of fall Chinook suggest change is coming. Downsized gear and early starts are advised as water conditions run low and clear.
Washougal River
Anglers continue to pick off fish early in the morning before temperatures spike. The afternoon bite has faded as the heat and river traffic intensify. Swimmers have complicated access and visibility in popular stretches. Bobber and coon shrimp remain top producers, with a few hits coming on jigs and spinners.
Cowlitz River
Summer steelhead and spring Chinook are moving strong through the system. Both bank and boat anglers are catching fish, especially in the Toledo area where plunkers and bobber-doggers are reporting consistent success. Spin-N-Glos with coon shrimp work well from shore, while boats are finding fish on beads, plugs, and cured eggs. Best action is still concentrated in the upper stretches of the river.
Tributary Weir Reports
Active weirs are now in place on the Grays River, Elochoman River (above Foster Road and at Beaver Creek Hatchery), Germany Creek, and Coweeman River. These sites support vital escapement data and monitoring—anglers should plan access accordingly.
Ocean & Long Beach
The Pacific fishery remains hot for coho and Chinook. Offshore anglers are finding steady success near the Long Beach and Columbia River mouths. A mix of hatchery and wild fish are showing, with trollers doing best on flasher/spoon combos in cooler pockets. Conditions have been consistent, with ocean temps and clarity providing favorable setups for salmon. Keep an eye on bar reports, as shifts in swell and wind can flip productivity quickly.
Read this week’s Oregon fishing report.